On Wednesday, 17 December 2025, Dhaka police intercepted a massive protest march heading towards the Indian High Commission in the Gulshan area in Bangladesh.
Demonstrators under the July Oikya banner demanded the extradition of deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who currently resides in India. The march started from Rampura Bridge but was halted by heavy police blockades near North Badda to prevent any security breach.
In response to the escalating situation and threats from radical groups, India’s Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Bangladeshi High Commissioner in New Delhi to express grave concern. Consequently, the Indian Visa Application Centre in Dhaka has suspended its operations indefinitely.
This development highlights the growing diplomatic friction between the two nations ahead of the upcoming general elections scheduled for February.
Diplomatic Crisis
The recent demonstrations are deeply rooted in the aftermath of the July uprising that led to the ouster of the Awami League government in August 2024. Tensions have intensified since a special tribunal in Dhaka sentenced Sheikh Hasina to death in absentia for crimes against humanity.
The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, is currently preparing for general elections on 12 February 2026, amidst a volatile security environment. Recent incidents, including the shooting of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, have further fuelled anti-India rhetoric among certain factions.
These groups accuse New Delhi of sheltering individuals responsible for the previous regime’s crackdown. Consequently, the relationship between the two neighbours remains strained as both sides navigate the complex transition towards a new political order.
India-Bangladesh Ties
The recent diplomatic rift stems from the August 2024 ouster of Sheikh Hasina and subsequent anti-India rhetoric in Bangladesh. Tensions flared after a special tribunal in Dhaka sentenced the former prime minister to death in absentia for crimes against humanity.
Relations worsened as Bangladeshi leaders accused New Delhi of sheltering “fugitive terrorists” and interfering in domestic security. Further friction arose from controversial remarks by student leaders threatening to destabilise India’s northeastern “Seven Sisters” region.
These developments have transformed a historical partnership into a complex readjustment phase marked by mutual suspicion and frequent diplomatic summons.
Read This: Bangladesh Leader Threatens to ‘Cut Off Seven Sisters’ From India; Assam CM Reacts
India Suspends Visa
On Wednesday, 17 December 2025, the Indian Visa Application Centre in Dhaka suspended all operations at 2 pm, citing an escalating security threat. This decision followed a planned march by the “July Oikya” group toward the Indian High Commission.
Indian officials expressed grave concern over the deteriorating safety environment and the failure of local authorities to provide adequate protection for diplomatic premises.
Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Bangladeshi High Commissioner to demand immediate measures for the safety of its personnel. This closure significantly impacts thousands of traders and medical tourists who rely on trans-border travel.
Public Outcry
During the march, several hundred protesters chanted slogans like “Delhi or Dhaka, Dhaka is Dhaka” while navigating police barricades. Although the crowd briefly breached an initial barrier, they were stopped by a stronger blockade.
A protester quoted by the UNB news agency stated they did not intend to attack the mission but would not tolerate external hegemony. Meanwhile, India’s Ministry of External Affairs issued a stern statement after meeting High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah.
The ministry emphasised that the interim government must ensure the safety of missions according to diplomatic obligations. India rejected what it termed a false narrative created by extremist elements. This standoff also caused a significant suspension of vehicular traffic in the diplomatic enclave for several hours.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we believe that sustainable peace is only possible through constructive dialogue and mutual respect. While the call for justice is a fundamental right, the safety of diplomatic missions is a cornerstone of international stability.
Hostile rhetoric and street standoffs often cloud the path toward genuine social change and regional harmony. We urge both nations to prioritise empathy and cooperation during this sensitive period of transition.
